Your new food waste recycling collection service

Why should I recycle my food waste?

As food waste is 70% water, sending food waste to incineration requires more energy to burn, so recycling is a more efficient method of disposal. Similarly, food waste that is sent to landfill doesn't harmlessly break down. It has a big impact on the environment as it rots and releases methane, one of the most harmful greenhouse gases that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

What if I don't produce any food waste?

Remember no amount is too small. The best thing we can do with our food is enjoy it but some things like banana skins, tea bags, and bones are unavoidable and can all be recycled. The average black bin is 25% food waste.

I don't have enough space for the caddy, what should I do?

• Kitchen caddy: A lot of people find keeping it under the sink, next to the kitchen bin or on the worktop is practical. Remember you can use your own container if you prefer something stylish or it fits better in the kitchen
• Outside bin: This is much smaller than your black bin (23l and similar in size to a bucket)

What happens to food waste once its collected?

More than 25% of the waste in the average waste bin is food. When recycled, food waste can be turned into something useful. Your food waste is taken to an anaerobic digestion facility where it is used to generate natural forms of energy such as biogas, an excellent alternative to fossil fuels and a fertiliser, which can be used in farming. 

I don't have time to do this – why should I?

It's easy, all you do is follow the instructions we will give nearer the time. You are already dealing with the food waste in your home by putting it in the black bin. This simple change can make a big difference.

It's important to reduce the amount of food waste going to landfill and for incineration to reduce carbon emissions, generate green energy and help reduce the impact of climate change.

Will the food in my bin smell?

Not if you empty your kitchen caddy regularly into the outside food waste recycling bin and tie up the liners. Both caddies have a lid, and the outdoor bin has a sealable lockable lid which will stop smells getting out and anything getting in. We currently collect your black bin every two weeks so this service will remove the food waste twice as often and more quickly meaning smells shouldn't be a problem.

What does anaerobic digestion mean?

This process uses microorganisms to break down food waste in the absence of oxygen inside an enclosed system. As it breaks down, it gives off methane, which is collected and converted into biogas and used to generate electricity, heat, or transport fuels. It also creates nutrient rich digestate that is used as a fertiliser for agriculture and land regeneration. 

How much will this cost? Will my council tax go up to pay for this?

This new service is statutory under the Environment Act 2021 and as such will be fully funded by central government. No increase is planned to council tax to pay for this collection. 

If you would like to ask another question which isn't answered here please contact us: Waste Services contact form

Last updated: 18/08/2025 10:30